Powered Rocker Recliner Linkage With Sequenced Actuator Phases
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern rocker recliners require complex linkage mechanisms for adjustment between seated, extended, and reclined positions, which hinder the integration of motors and limit movement, making it difficult to achieve full powered adjustment without interfering with internal crossbeams or the rocker mechanism.
Innovation Solution
A simplified, compact linkage mechanism that uses a linear actuator with sequenced phases to adjust a rocker-recliner-style seating unit between closed, extended, and reclined positions, ensuring the footrest is extended before the backrest reclines, allowing for full automated adjustment without interfering with the rocker mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a complex linkage mechanism is used to provide adjustment capability between seated, extended, and reclined positions, then the adjustment functionality is achieved, but the device complexity increases and motor integration is hindered
Solution Approach 1:
The linkage mechanism is divided into separate functional modules: a rocker mechanism for rocking motion and a reclining mechanism for backrest adjustment. This segmentation allows each module to perform its specific function independently, reducing overall complexity while maintaining full adjustment capability between seated, extended, and reclined positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The simplified linkage mechanism is designed to perform multiple functions through a unified structure that can accommodate both rocking and reclining operations. The mechanism allows the seating unit to achieve full adjustment between positions without requiring separate complex systems for each function, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining versatility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a complex linkage mechanism is used to achieve full adjustment between positions, then the adjustment range is improved, but the ease of manufacture decreases due to motor integration constraints
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the rocker and reclining functions into distinct mechanical modules, the design creates clear mounting points and access areas for motor attachment. This segmentation eliminates the need for complex integrated mechanisms that would constrain motor placement, thereby improving ease of manufacture while maintaining full adjustment capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The motor attachment constraints are extracted and resolved by designing the linkage mechanism with dedicated motor mounting interfaces that are independent of the adjustment mechanism. This allows motors to be attached without interfering with internal crossbeams or limiting movement, simplifying the manufacturing process.
3Strength
If internal crossbeams are present to provide structural support, then the strength is improved, but the extent of automation is limited due to motor placement interference
Solution Approach 1:
The structural support function is maintained through dedicated crossbeam elements that are spatially separated from the motor mounting areas. This segmentation allows motors to be positioned and operated without interfering with the structural crossbeams, enabling full automated powered adjustment capability while maintaining structural strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The design resolves the conflict between crossbeams and motor placement by utilizing three-dimensional spatial arrangement. Motors are positioned in areas that do not conflict with the horizontal crossbeams, allowing both structural support and automated adjustment to coexist without interference.
4Device complexity
If a compact linkage mechanism is used to reduce device complexity, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability may be affected by simplified mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The linkage mechanism is segmented into specialized sub-mechanisms (rocker and reclining components) that are simpler than a fully integrated complex mechanism. Each segmented component is optimized for its specific function, which improves ease of operation while maintaining reliability through functional specialization and reduced mechanical interference.
Data Source
AI summary
A rocker-recliner-style seating unit (rocker recliner) that includes a linkage mechanism adapted to move the rocker recliner between closed, extended, and reclined positions is provided. The rocker recliner is powered by a linear actuator that facilitates automated adjustment of the linkage mechanism. This adjustment of the linear actuator is sequenced into a first phase and a second phase. A stroke of the linear actuator in the first phase acts to adjust the linkage mechanism between the closed and extended positions by extending or retracting ottoman(s) attached to a footrest assembly. A stroke in the second phase acts to adjust the linkage mechanism between the extended and reclined positions by translating a seat-mounting plate forward or rearward at a consistent inclination angle while, concurrently, tilting a back-mounting link. Accordingly, the phase sequencing ensures that the linkage mechanism commences adjustment within the second phase only once the first-phase adjustment is substantially complete.